Update on the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Proposal to Phase Out ENERGY STAR Certification for Residential Gas Furnaces – Comments Due to EPA by June 22nd.  

Recall that in the May 19, 2023 Update on End Use Codes and Standards, we provided the EPA notice outlining its proposal to phase out the labeling and promotion of residential gas furnaces and central air conditioners (CACs). Specifically, EPA proposes to sunset the ENERGY STAR Version 4.1 Specification for Furnaces and remove CAC from the ENERGY STAR V6.1 Specification for CAC and Heat Pump Equipment effective December 30, 2024, with no new certifications accepted after December 30, 2023. The notice stated that the proposed action is consistent with the EPA’s focus on electric heat pumps and their ability to deliver energy-efficiency gains, pollution reduction, and cost-savings to consumers. Also, EPA asserts its responsibility to guide consumers to choices supporting the electrification of residential space conditioning.  To assist the BECS Committee and other AGA members, please see the attached issue brief and situation analysis that provides additional information on the EPA proposal and lists AGA’s position strongly opposing the sunsetting of the program and the negative consequences that would occur for consumers if it were finalized as proposed. Please feel free to distribute the Issue Brief within your organization and BECS Committee members are encouraged to submit comments by the June 22, 2023 deadline to EPA at [email protected] . For those companies planning to submit comment, of particular importance would be specific information on how the proposal would impact your company’s consumer and commercial energy efficiency promotional programs.   Be aware that AGA is also working with other associations and stakeholders who are deeply concerned with the negative impact the EPA proposal will have on consumers as well as their membership. We would appreciate copies of submitted comments.

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions on this issue.  

State Codes Activity Update.

Attached is a weekly feature of the “Friday Update” covering state code calendar activities as presented by the online utility “Fiscal Note,” which is sponsored by APGA and AGA Code and Standards. Please review the update and determine if there are state code activities that impact your service territory or organization.